The CDSRA Member of the Month features referees of different ages, levels, and backgrounds to reflect the diversity in our referee community and our association. Our July 2024 Member of the Month is Emily Gall.

Questions & Answers:

Q: Current Referee Level & Highest level attained:
A: District

Q: When did you begin, and what motivated you to start refereeing? 
A: I began refereeing two years ago, in the summer of 2022. During this time, I had been dealing with an injury and wasn’t able to play soccer as much as I had in the past. Refereeing gave me a way to remain connected to soccer as well as helped me develop skills, like direct communication and focus, that weren’t being tested elsewhere.

Q: What has been your most enjoyable game/memory of your referee career?
A: This past April, I was invited to officiate at the Futsal Canadian Championship held here in Calgary. During the tournament, I met so many incredible officials, assessors and coaches from across the country. I learned so many important lessons and the environment was very special, with all the officials supporting each other while still holding each other accountable. At the tournament, I was granted the opportunity to be referee 1 on one of the matches. My crew was amazing, with their constant encouragement mixed with experience. Outside the games we shared many laughs and stories and the people that I met that weekend and the memories I made will stick with me not only for the rest of my refereeing career but the rest of my life.

Q: What do you love most about refereeing? 
A: What I love most about refereeing is the community. When working with a crew or running a mock fitness test, everyone is brought together to work towards a common goal. The people around you are always there to support you or offer advice when requested. They are also always able to make you laugh or share a story from one of their games. When refereeing, it is impossible to feel disconnected.

Q: When did you first become a CDSRA member and what encouraged you to join? 
A: I joined the CDSRA a couple of months ago after attending the mock fitness tests. I was encouraged to join because of how much they offered to officials and the support that they provided. I wanted to learn more at education sessions and continue to meet more officials within the community.

Q: What advice would you give to somebody just starting out refereeing? 
A: My advice to someone just starting refereeing is to carry yourself with confidence. In the beginning, it can feel very daunting, but the more you believe in yourself, the easier and more enjoyable it will become. Players and coaches will respond better to an official who is confident in their decisions.

Q: What do you do outside of refereeing and what are some of your interests? 
A: Alongside refereeing, I have continued to play soccer in the CWSA. My schedule is not as intense as it was when I was young, but I continue to find the game very enjoyable. I will also be attending the University of Calgary in the fall to pursue a degree in Engineering. I enjoy science and I am excited to see where this path takes me.